体操

TAISō

dynamic body practice

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Course Structure

At Neko-Bu-Kai, our Taisō class offers a holistic conditioning system grounded in Japanese tradition. Ideal for all ages and fitness levels, this class combines:

  • Seated meditation in Seiza to develop posture, core strength, and mental focus.

  • Stance work using kiba-dachi, shiko-dachi, and neko-ashi-dachi to strengthen lateral leg muscles, glutes, quadriceps, calves, soleus and support spinal alignment.

  • Gentle and Strong Taisō sequences to promote joint mobility, balance, and energy flow.

JUNI ENSHU NO TAISŌ

The twelve-excercise routine is a form of Go Taisō, a combined system of warm-up, stretching, and muscle strengthening, using both static and dynamic stretching. It engages multiple muscular chains for a sufficient amount of time to significantly activate the cardio-respiratory system.

alberto-scarpellini-taiso-crane-form

JUNI ENSHU NO TAISŌ

This training routine is a form of Go Taisō, a combined system of warm-up, stretching, and muscle strengthening, using both static and dynamic stretching. It engages multiple muscular chains for a sufficient amount of time to significantly activate the cardio-respiratory system.

Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate style

TAISŌ

It is a Japanese term that refers to a set of dynamic warm-up exercises designed to activate the whole body, improve joint mobility, balance, and coordination. These exercises are often rhythmic and repetitive, combining movement with breath in a meditative, energising flow. They can include rolling, swinging, stretching, and spinal exercises meant to awaken both mind and body.

Core Study Areas

 

Gentle Taisō (柔体操 Jū‑Taisō)

This softer variation supports joint mobility, fluidity of movement, and energy circulation. Movements are performed at a slow, mindful pace — ideal for beginners, older adults, or recovery.

 Strong Taisō (剛体操 Gō‑Taisō)

A more intense form focusing on strength, posture, breath, and stamina. Movements are performed with controlled force and rhythm, encouraging dynamic alignment, muscular balance, and cardiovascular engagement. The sequences provide an adaptable challenge for martial artists and fitness enthusiasts looking for an alternative to Yoga or Pilates.

MEDITATION AND BREATHING

Each session begins in Seiza, a traditional seated posture that promotes calm and mental clarity. Focused breathing in this position improves spinal alignment, strengthens deep postural muscles, and cultivates presence of mind. This stillness forms the inner anchor for the physical training that follows.

STANCE TRAINING

We use traditional Japanese Martial Arts stances like kiba-dachi (horse stance), shiko-dachi (sumo stance), neko-ashi-dachi (cat stance), sagi-ashi-dachi (heron stance) to develop stability, strength, and leg awareness. These stances activate the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, soleus, and lateral stabilisers, while also improving posture and balance.

Dynamic Movement & Floor Conditioning

Sessions transitions into dynamic sequences that include coordinated upper and lower body movements, improving overall agility and muscle tone.
We also integrate floor-based exercises to strengthen the arms, shoulders, and abdominal muscles. These movements enhance functional strength, flexibility, and coordination, reinforcing martial posture and breath control.

Classes

DAYS & TIMES

Tuesday | 7:30pm – 8:30pm

Thursday | 5:30pm – 6:30pm

 

DOJO

Tuesday | Horspath Hub

Thursday | Garsington Village Hall

FEE

Up to 2 classes a week

£49.00/month

 

猫武会

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Contact Us

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CLASSES

KARATE
Tuesday 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Thursday 7:00pm – 8:30pm

TAISŌ
Tuesday | 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Thursday | 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Where we are

Garsington Village Hall
Wheatley Road, Garsington
OX44, Oxford

Horspath Hub
The Old Chapel, Horspath
OX33 1RP, Oxford